Voluptuous Vitamin C

Why Vitamin C?

I'm sure you've heard a lot about Vitamin C, but do you really know what it is and what the benefits are? If not, then I will give you the information you need to know all about it! Even if you do know a lot about Vitamin C, you might find some of this stuff interesting too!


What exactly is Vitamin C?
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that protects the body against oxidative stress. Oxidation produces 'free radicals in our body which can start chain reactions that damage cells'. Vitamin C is a nutrient that we need in our diet. It is found mainly in fruits and veggies.

Why do we need it?
We need Vitamin C because it maintains and forms skin, bones, and blood vessels. It helps produce collagen (connective tissue) in our bodies. It is said that 1% to 2% of muscle tissue is collagen. Vitamin C is also a healing agent. It helps heal cuts, wounds, and can help fight off infections. And, it is said that 'Vitamin C can stop the growth, or even kill a wide range of cancer cells.'

How much Vitamin C do we need daily?
According to the FDA, men should consume 90 mg of Vitamin C per day. Women should consume 75 mg per day. If you consume too much, 'there is a risk of developing diarrhea.' ….so eat it at home. Just kidding….  


Foods that contain Vitamin C: 
- Yellow, red, and green bell peppers
- Guavas
- Kale
- Spinach
- Swiss Chard
- Turnip Greens
- Kiwi
- Broccoli
- Brussel Sprouts
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Berries
- Citrus Fruits
- Tomatoes 
- Peas
- Papaya
- Mangos
- Pineapple
- Cantaloupe
- Honeydew Melon

As for me:

My favorite source of Vitamin C is…. yep, you guessed it! Pineapple! I am OBSESSED with pineapples. They're juicy, acidic goodness is a great source of Vitamin C! Not only does it contain Vitamin C, but it also contains potassium, bromelian (which is a great natural detox), fiber, manganese, and other antioxidants. 

Pineapple is great as a snack! It goes well with smoothies, other fruits, even grilled, or on pizza, and of course by itself. But let's be honest, we all know it goes best with Pina Coladas…. just kidding… no, but really.  

I found a recipe for a healthy Pina Colada smoothie by the Tone It Up girls (if you don't follow them, you definitely should!):

*I don't use their coconut water mix or their protein. You can substitute by using regular coconut water and any vanilla protein.*

Here's the link for more info: http://toneitup.com/2014/07/if-you-like-pina-coladas/



Hope you've enjoyed today's spill of Vitamin C! Feel free to comment, ask questions, etc.! I love hearing from y'all! And thank you for all of the support! 

XOXO,
Callie

Also, a special thanks to my best friend, Hannah, for taking awesome pics!


Sources:
 http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/219352.php  http://www.healthaliciousness.com/articles/vitamin-C.php
http://toneitup.com/2014/07/if-you-like-pina-coladas/